Pampered Chef Orange Chicken Lo Mein: A Weeknight Winner

The scent of citrus and savory spices always transports me back to my college days. Late nights studying inevitably led to cravings for something quick, flavorful, and comforting. Orange chicken lo mein from the local takeout spot was a frequent indulgence – a reward for surviving another exam, a shared meal with friends, a moment of pure, unadulterated deliciousness. Recreating that experience at home, but with fresher ingredients and a healthier twist, has been a culinary mission ever since. This Pampered Chef version captures that same vibrant flavor in a simple, satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Dietary Type: Adaptable (see Variations)

Ingredients

• 2 oranges
• ¾ cup water
• ½ cup sugar
• ½ cup white vinegar
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Asian seasoning mix (see tip below for substitution)
• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 egg
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon fresh coarse ground black pepper
• ½ cup flour
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 garlic cloves, pressed
• 2 (3 ounce) packages ramen noodles, any flavor, split into halves (discard seasoning packets)
• 1 (12-16 ounce) bag frozen vegetables, thawed (broccoli, carrots, and peapods recommended)
• 3 cups thinly sliced green cabbage

Ingredient Note: For the Asian seasoning mix, you can usually find pre-made blends in the spice aisle of most supermarkets. If not, or you prefer a fresher taste, you can substitute 2 teaspoons grated fresh gingerroot, ¾ teaspoon salt, 1 pressed garlic clove and ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper.

Equipment Needed

• Small Batter Bowl
• Classic Batter Bowl
• 12-inch Skillet
• Citrus Zester
• Citrus Juicer
• Garlic Press

Instructions

1. First, prepare the orange sauce. Zest 2 oranges, measuring out 1 tablespoon of zest. Then, juice both oranges until you have ½ cup of juice.

2. In the Small Batter Bowl, combine the orange zest, orange juice, water, sugar, white vinegar, soy sauce, and Asian seasoning mix. Whisk thoroughly until the sugar is dissolved. Set aside.

3. Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces.

4. In the Classic Batter Bowl, combine the egg, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces to the egg mixture and stir to coat evenly.

5. In a large bowl, combine the flour and cornstarch.

6. Add the chicken mixture to the flour mixture and toss to coat each piece completely.

7. Heat the vegetable oil in the 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat for 1-3 minutes, or until the oil is shimmering hot. Be careful not to overheat the oil to the point of smoking.

8. Remove the chicken from the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Carefully place the chicken into the hot skillet in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. You may need to cook the chicken in batches.

9. Cook the chicken for 8-10 minutes, or until it is golden brown and the centers are no longer pink. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and browning. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.

10. Add the pressed garlic to the skillet. Cook for 30-60 seconds, until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

11. Add the ramen noodles (discarding the seasoning packets) and the orange sauce mixture to the skillet.

12. Cover the skillet and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the noodles are softened.

13. Add the thawed frozen vegetables and sliced green cabbage to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are heated through and the cabbage is crisp-tender.

14. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce and vegetables.

15. Serve immediately.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When cooking the chicken, work in batches to ensure it browns properly. Overcrowding will steam the chicken instead of searing it.
• Spice it up: If you like a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Fresh is best: While frozen vegetables are convenient, using fresh vegetables will elevate the flavor and texture of the dish. Broccoli florets, bell peppers, and snap peas all work well.
• Make it ahead: The orange sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This helps the flavors meld together even more.
• Don’t overcook the noodles: Ramen noodles cook very quickly. Keep a close eye on them while simmering in the sauce to prevent them from becoming mushy.
• Chicken thighs: For a richer flavor and more tender result, consider using boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
• Ginger addition: Infuse extra warmth by grating fresh ginger into the garlic when sauteing. Start with about 1 teaspoon and adjust to taste.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Pampered Chef Orange Chicken Lo Mein hot, garnished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added visual appeal. This dish is best enjoyed immediately. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave until heated through, or reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to prevent sticking. Note that the noodles may become softer upon reheating. This dish is not recommended for freezing, as the texture of the noodles and vegetables may suffer.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	791 kcal	–
Calories from Fat	208g	26%
Total Fat	23.2 g	35%
Saturated Fat	6 g	30%
Cholesterol	155.5 mg	51%
Sodium	2431.2 mg	101%
Total Carbohydrate	95.7 g	31%
Dietary Fiber	8 g	32%
Sugars	34 g	–
Protein	50 g	100%

Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free ramen noodles or rice noodles, and tamari instead of soy sauce. Be sure to check that your Asian seasoning mix is also gluten-free.
• Vegetarian/Vegan: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based chicken alternative. Ensure your Asian seasoning mix does not contain any animal products.
• Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce or omit the salt in the recipe. Consider using fresh herbs and spices to boost the flavor instead.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for added heat.
• Vegetable Variety: Feel free to swap out the frozen vegetables for your favorites. Bell peppers, snap peas, water chestnuts, and baby corn are all great options.
• Protein Power: Add shrimp, beef, or pork instead of chicken for a different protein source. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use different types of noodles?
A: Absolutely! While the recipe calls for ramen noodles, you can easily substitute with lo mein noodles, spaghetti, or even rice noodles depending on your preference.

Q: How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan?
A: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken, and don’t overcrowd the pan. Cooking in batches will help maintain the temperature and prevent sticking.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them just before cooking.

Q: What can I substitute for Asian seasoning mix?
A: A great substitute is a mix of grated fresh gingerroot, salt, pressed garlic, and ground cayenne pepper, as noted in the ingredient section.

Q: How do I keep the vegetables crisp-tender?
A: Avoid overcooking the vegetables. Add them to the skillet just a few minutes before the end of cooking time and stir-fry until they are heated through but still slightly crisp.

Final Thoughts

This Pampered Chef Orange Chicken Lo Mein is more than just a recipe; it’s a comforting and customizable dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables, protein sources, or spice levels to make it your own. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to create a delicious and satisfying meal that will bring a smile to your face. And don’t forget to share your culinary creations and feedback with friends and family! Consider pairing this with a light cucumber salad or some steamed edamame for a complete and balanced meal. Enjoy!